Money is the root of all evil examples

 Is Money the Root of All Evil? A Biblical Guide

      Many people often quote, “Money is the root of all evil,” but the Bible says something slightly different:

   “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.”

— 1 Timothy 6:10 (NIV)

      This verse doesn’t condemn money itself—it warns against the love of money. In other words, greed, covetousness, and the desire for wealth above all else can lead people to commit evil acts.

1. Understanding the Verse in Context

      Paul was writing to Timothy about dangers that believers should avoid. One of them was the desire to get rich, which can lead people away from the faith:

   “Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”

— 1 Timothy 6:10 (NIV)

      Greed can be a subtle trap. Money promises security, power, and pleasure—but when it takes God’s place in a person’s heart, it becomes idolatry.

2. Biblical Examples of the Love of Money Leading to Evil

a. Judas Iscariot – Betrayal for Profit

      Judas agreed to betray Jesus for thirty pieces of silver.

   “What are you willing to give me if I deliver Him to you?” And they counted out to him thirty pieces of silver.

— Matthew 26:15 (NKJV)

      Judas’ greed drove him to commit one of the most tragic betrayals in history. The money did not bring him joy—instead, it led to guilt and death.

b. Ananias and Sapphira – Deceit over Money

      This couple sold a piece of property but secretly kept part of the money while pretending to give the full amount to the apostles.

   “You have not lied just to human beings but to God.”

— Acts 5:4 (NIV)

      Their desire to appear generous without actually being honest showed that greed was in their hearts. God judged them swiftly.

c. The Rich Young Ruler – Choosing Wealth Over Christ

      A wealthy young man came to Jesus asking how to gain eternal life. But when told to sell his possessions and give to the poor, he went away sad.

   “He went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.”

— Matthew 19:22 (NKJV)

      His love for wealth kept him from following Jesus fully.

3. The Consequences of Loving Money

      The Bible outlines the dangers of loving money:

● Loss of Faith: Greed pulls people away from trusting in God.

● Moral Compromise: People cheat, lie, and even hurt others for financial gain.

● Spiritual Emptiness: Riches can’t satisfy the soul (Ecclesiastes 5:10).

● Eternal Danger: Jesus warned that it's hard for the rich to enter the kingdom of God (Matthew 19:23-24).

4. Money as a Good Stewardship Tool

      Money itself is not evil. In fact, the Bible encourages wise financial stewardship:

● Providing for one’s family (1 Timothy 5:8)

● Giving to the poor (Proverbs 19:17)

● Supporting ministry (Philippians 4:15-17)

     The issue lies in the heart. Jesus said:

  “No one can serve two masters… You cannot serve both God and money.”

— Matthew 6:24 (NIV)

5. How to Guard Against the Love of Money

● Be content: “Godliness with contentment is great gain.” (1 Timothy 6:6)

● Be generous: Giving loosens the grip of greed.

● Keep an eternal perspective: Store up treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:19-21).

● Trust God as Provider: Seek first His kingdom (Matthew 6:33).

      Money isn’t evil—but loving it above God leads to all kinds of evil. As believers, we are called to live wisely, use our resources for God’s glory, and find our satisfaction in Christ—not in wealth.